Abstract: One or more slit arc-shaped (vertex) illuminators (SAVI) have unique interactions when illuminating objects, especially convex or concave curves on spheroidal objects such as the human face creating proximity dependent enhanced dynamic illumination. When multiple SAVI are used, with adjoining vertices, adjustments made to the intensity of individual SAVI dramatically change the visual appearance of convex and concave radial curves shapes on the subject. In portrait photography, the illumination balance of opposing SAVIs offers novel controlled distortion that adjusts facial contours to achieve a desired effect, e.g., apparent thinning or other esthetic goals. When photographing different human skin types (light vs.

Abstract: A method of selectively distorting a human face or other subject to be filmed or photographed includes providing a reflective or transmissive medium on which is formed a color pattern of two or more colors that produces white or gray by additive mixing, the color pattern consisting of a first set of one or more colors each of whose hue is ?300 degrees or ?120 degrees on a standard RGB color wheel and a second set of one or more colors each of whose hue is between 120 degrees and 300 degrees, the first set of colors confined to a contiguous region of the color pattern that makes up 50% or less by area. The method further includes positioning the medium relative to a light source and the subject such that light incident on the medium is reflected or transmitted by the medium and cast upon the subject.

Abstract: A photography lighting system operative to impart patterns of complimentary colors that mimic the ambient light of natural surroundings creating a faithful rendering of the subject. The patterns include sinusoidal (sine waves) and other shapes that act to blend the colors and also help to accentuate a three-dimensional rendering of the subject. This invention gives the illusion of a soft white light source but with the added desirable qualities of minimizing imperfections and improving the “natural look” of human faces, especially with digital photography, and designed to replace traditional uniform lighting instruments (soft boxes) and reflection (bounce) cards.

Abstract: A method of selectively distorting a human face or other subject to be filmed or photographed includes providing a reflective or transmissive medium on which is formed a color pattern of two or more colors that produces white or gray by additive mixing, the color pattern consisting of a first set of one or more colors each of whose hue is ?300 degrees or ?120 degrees on a standard RGB color wheel and a second set of one or more colors each of whose hue is between 120 degrees and 300 degrees, the first set of colors confined to a contiguous region of the color pattern that makes up 50% or less by area. The method further includes positioning the medium relative to a light source and the subject such that light incident on the medium is reflected or transmitted by the medium and cast upon the subject.

Abstract: A photography lighting system operative to impart patterns of complimentary colors that mimic the ambient light of natural surroundings creating a faithful rendering of the subject. The patterns include sinusoidal (sine waves) and other shapes that act to blend the colors and also help to accentuate a three-dimensional rendering of the subject. This invention gives the illusion of a soft white light source but with the added desirable qualities of minimizing imperfections and improving the “natural look” of human faces, especially with digital photography, and designed to replace traditional uniform lighting instruments (soft boxes) and reflection (bounce) cards.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for degreasing and lubricating objects, such as mechanical devices and the like. A composition comprised of a mixture of ethanol and food-grade mineral oil is applied directly to the substrate or objects sought to be degreased or lubricated. For degreasing applications, an amount of the composition is applied in an amount sufficient to penetrate and loosen grease-covered substrates, and is particularly well suited for hand wiping applications. Such methods can also be utilized to remove paint and ink. The compositions are substantially effective yet relatively non-toxic and biodegradable.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for degreasing and lubricating objects, such as mechanical devices and the like. A composition comprised of a mixture of ethanol and food-grade mineral oil is applied directly to the substrate or objects sought to be degreased or lubricated. For degreasing applications, an amount of the composition is applied in an amount sufficient to penetrate and loosen grease-covered substrates, and is particularly well suited for hand wiping applications. Such methods can also be utilized to remove paint and ink. The compositions are substantially effective yet relatively non-toxic and biodegradable.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for degreasing and lubricating objects, such as mechanical devices and the like. A composition comprised of a mixture of ethanol and food-grade mineral oil is applied directly to the substrate or objects sought to be degreased or lubricated. For degreasing applications, an amount of the composition is applied in an amount sufficient to penetrate and loosen grease-covered substrates, and is particularly well suited for hand wiping applications. Such methods can also be utilized to remove paint and ink. The compositions are substantially effective yet relatively non-toxic and biodegradable.

Abstract: Composition and method for simultaneously disinfecting and conditioning a wooden cutting surface, such as a cutting board or counter top. According to a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises a mixture of ethanol and food-grade mineral oil where the ethanol is present in an amount sufficient impart antiseptic properties. To the extent desired, other adjuvants, such as flavor enhancers, coloring agents, and the like may be added. The method comprises contacting the wooden cutting surface with such composition for a time sufficient to enable the ethanol to adequately disinfect the cutting surface. Preferably, such method may be performed by merely spraying or wiping the composition directly onto the wooden cutting surface.

Abstract: A system and method for calibrating the color balance of a video camera according to a non-standard photographic color temperature. The systems and methods incorporate a plurality of pigments, namely subtractive primary colors (yellow, cyan, magenta), that each may be utilized as a reference to adjust the color balance of a video camera. Each respective pigment is designed to replace the color white or gray as a reference to adjust the color balance so that the camera can capture the natural color of a light source according to a non-standard photographic color temperature (i.e., white).

Abstract: Composition and method for simultaneously disinfecting and conditioning a wooden cutting surface, such as a cutting board or counter top. According to a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises a mixture of ethanol and food-grade mineral oil where the ethanol is present in an amount sufficient impart antiseptic properties. To the extent desired, other adjuvants, such as flavor enhancers, coloring agents, and the like may be added. The method comprises contacting the wooden cutting surface with such composition for a time sufficient to enable the ethanol to adequately disinfect the cutting surface. Preferably, such method may be performed by merely spraying or wiping the composition directly onto the wooden cutting surface.